Animal products and human health
"Well-planned vegan diets can support healthy living in people of all ages" - British Dietetic Association
A well-planned plant-based diet provides all of the nutrients we need to live a happy, healthy life. There is also research to suggest that those following a vegan diet are at reduced risk of type-2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity and even certain types of cancer.
“Where Do You Get Your Protein?”
Excessive protein consumption can lead to a number of serious health problems. Studies show that vegan diets provide sufficient amounts of protein, automatically met by a balanced, varied diet including grains (e.g. rice) and pulses (e.g. beans). Research shows that plant-based protein sources are just as effective in helping building and maintaining muscle as animal-based protein.
Other good plant-based sources of protein include soya and soya products, like tofu, seitan, nuts and seeds.
Vegan Nutrition
Some people going vegetarian or vegan worry about getting enough protein, calcium, B vitamins and other essential nutrients. The best evidence indicates that a balanced non-animal diet is healthy and suitable for all stages of life.
“With good planning and an understanding of what makes up a healthy, balanced vegan diet, you can get all the nutrients your body needs.”
– NHS Eat Well Guide.
“A balanced vegan diet can be enjoyed by children and adults, including during pregnancy and breastfeeding, if the nutritional intake is well-planned.”
– British Dietetics Association.
“[A]ppropriately planned […] vegan, diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits for the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. [These diets] are appropriate for all stages of the life cycle, including pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, older adulthood, and for athletes.”
– American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Helpful Websites and Resources
The Vegan RD: www.theveganrd.com
The Vegan Society: www.vegansociety.com/resources/nutrition-and-health
The NHS Eat Well advice for vegan diets: www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/the-vegan-diet
Vegan Health, evidence-based vegan nutritional advice: www.veganhealth.org
Download our Vegan Guide to Nutrition poster